A Voice from the Border SummaryPamela Smith Hill

A Voice from the Border Summary

A Voice from, the Border illustrates the growing friendship and understanding between a fifteen-year-old girl and her father's fifteen-year-old slave while the American Civil War is being fought a short distance from their home. Margaret Reeves O'Neill and Hector, her father's slave, are the protagonists. However Margaret Reeves O'Neill is the narrator. During a short four months, Reeves' notes reveal her thoughts about slavery and how she matures as she gains insight into the lives of those around her.

Both young people learn to face the complex events of the war, death, and slavery.

By the story's conclusion, Reeves and Hector have grown toward making mature decisions and have learned to value each other as friends.